A year would be needed to visit all of the nation’s more than 15,000 temples because of their dispersed locations. Our list of the top 7 cultural attractions in Taipei will help you make the most of your visit (and still have time to indulge in delectable street food and try locally grown tea in authentic teahouses). Specify which items from the list below you prefer in the comments section.

1. Sanxia District

Sanxia District

 

Travel back in time to Taiwan’s founding by visiting Sanxia old street. Wander through the alleyways and red brick buildings, historical shops, and tea houses. With so much to see, consider exploring this area by bike!

2. Longshan Temple – Buddhist Temple

Longshan Temple

 

Longshan is best visited at 6 a.m., 8 a.m., and 5 p.m. when crowds of worshippers gather and begin to chant. Longshan is dedicated to Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Mercy, but in true Taiwanese fashion, over 100 other gods and goddesses are worshipped in the back and side halls.

3. Jiufen

Jiufen

 

Looking to get a closer look at Taiwanese culture and history but need to get away from the city? Jiufen is only one hour away by public transportation. You’ll walk among cobblestone walkways and engage with moving history, retro cafes, tea houses, shops, and ocean views in this town known for resembling the setting of the animated film Spirited Away. What more could you ask for?

4. Bao’an Temple – Taoist Temple

Bao’an Temple

 

This temple is a must-see in Taipei, with Feng Shui on the front lawn and stone-carved lions and dragons painted on the walls.
Visit between April and June to enjoy the free cultural festival with firecrackers, fire walking rituals, and delicious food (yes, please!).

5. Songshan Cultural and Creative Park

Songshan Cultural and Creative Park

 

Make some art at Taipei’s creative hub. Art exhibits, fashion shows, film shoots, award ceremonies, shopping, and more can be found here… Taking in the contemporary aesthetic on the grounds of a former tobacco factory is a must.

6. Confucius Temple – Confucian Temple

Confucius Temple

 

You’d be hard-pressed to visit Taiwan and not come across Confucius (China’s most revered teacher and philosopher, FYI). This temple is cutting-edge because it is (wait for it) interactive. You heard us correctly! Test the waters with free Confucius-themed shows in a 4D cinema. Do you want more? Come back at the end of September to celebrate his birthday!

7. National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

 

Do you want to learn about Taiwanese history but also spend some time outside? Proceed to the Chiang Kai-shek National Memorial Hall. This national monument was erected in honour of Chiang Kai-shek, the Republic of China’s first president. Here, you can see the hourly changing of the guard, stroll through beautiful gardens, and learn about Taiwan’s fascinating history. The best part? The museum is completely free! Please sign us up!

So, do you have a strong desire to visit Taiwan? Let's get started! Alternatively, explore more trips in and around Taipei.